Researchers at the Center for Disease Control (CDC) analyzed
data from the National Violent Death Reporting System across 17 states for the years
of 2005 and 2006 to come up with the alcohol and suicide correlation
statistics; evaluating data from almost 20 000 suicides during that 2 year
period.

Although alcohol was found in a high percentage of suicide victims
across all races and ethnic groups, people of Native American decent were the
most likely intoxicated before committing suicide (37.1%) followed by Hispanics
(29%).

Alcohol was more likely found in younger male suicide
victims; only 18% of female suicide victims were intoxicated before taking
their life.

Dr. Alex Crosby, the author of the study report which was published
in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, explained alcohol’s role in
suicidal behavior by saying, “It (alcohol) leads to disinhibition, and it can
enhance feelings of hopelessness and depression. Alcohol impairs judgment and
can lead to much more impulsive behavior."

The data proves empirically what health workers have always
known, that alcohol and suicide go tragically hand in hand. Dr Crosby summed up
the significance of the research by stating that any suicide prevention efforts
need to address alcohol and drug use as a significant catalyst factor.

Dr Philip May, a professor of sociology in Albuquerque,
at the University of New Mexico, suspects that alcohol influences about 40%
of suicides within New Mexico.
He says that for younger victims, suicide is often an impulsive event, and that
in impulsive suicides, alcohol often plays a tragic role.

He explains that alcohol increases suicidal follow-through
in 2 ways, either by facilitating the suicidal act, or by increasing the likelihood
of suicidal thoughts and actions.

Dr. Crosby concurs, explaining that alcohol worsens
depression and can increase feelings of hopelessness. It also lowers inhibition
and decreases judgment – all of which stir up to a very dangerous mindset for
an already depressed or hopeless person.

Here are 2 facts about alcoholism: It tends to get worse over time (it is progressive) and most people experience a fairly similar progression of symptoms and consequences. Here is a timeline which charts the progressive experiences of alcoholism through the early, middle and late stages. If you have a drinking problem, find out where you fall on the timeline and consider what’s coming in the future. Read Article